Multiple sources today confirm that the Chicago Cubs are hiring former Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon to serve as the manager for the team. Maddon, who left Tampa Bay last week, is a two-time AL Manager of the Year, and has four playoff appearances to his name, as well as an AL pennant.
The Cubs haven't won a World Series in 106 years, and are currently amidst a multi-year rebuilding plan to bring the organization back into contention. Maddon is replacing Rick Renteria, a former bench coach for the San Diego Padres, who managed Chicago in 2014, leading them to a 73-89 record.
[via Twitter]
UPDATE:
David Kaplan of CSN Chicago reports that the "deal is not done," though he indicates that Maddon will eventually sign with the team.
Again, very good MLB source says Maddon deal is not done. Have to think MLB does not want deal done before game 7 thus they pump the brakes.
— David Kaplan (@thekapman) October 29, 2014
